SNCB plans more trains for Brussels and surroundings

National rail authority SNCB plans to increase the frequency of its S-trains, which run into and around the capital, the company said. Nationwide, new lines and frequency of current lines will increase by 5%.

The 12 S-trains were introduced in 2015. At present, some lines are restricted at certain times of the day. Weekday changes expected to come into force by the end of this year include the Aalst-Brussels-Vilvoorde S4 train running from Merode station in Brussels to Vilvoorde all day, and the S5 train Enghien-Halle-Schuman-Mechelen always running as far as Enghien. Similarly, the S6 Aalst-Brussels-Geraardsbergen train will go on to Aalst at all times.

Weekends will also see increases in frequency and service to the S5 and S2 (Braine-le-Comte-Leuven) routes. For students travelling to and from schools at weekends, two new trains will run direct to Etterbeek and to Louvain-la-Neuve.

At the same time, SNCB presented its multi-year investment plan, worth more than €3 billion. The main spending goes to rolling stock and improvements to passenger comfort and safety.

Stations also receive a substantial part of the package, with renovation works planned on platforms in Brussels North and to the ticket hall at Schaerbeek station, as well as increased parking facilities for bikes across the network.

Photo courtesy Stamp Media